In this week’s Inside Austria we look at how Austria comes to a near standstill during the summer months, and practical tips to survive the nationwide holiday shutdown.
Inside Austria is our weekly look at some of the news, talking points, and gossip in Austria that you might not have heard about. It’s published each Saturday, and members can receive it directly in their inbox by going to their newsletter preferences or adding their email to the sign-up box in this article.
Austria slows down for summer – here’s what you need to know
Austria’s National Council wrapped up its parliamentary year this week with a flurry of legislation before heading into the long summer break.
MPs passed measures ranging from a partial pension scheme to a new ban on under-18 marriages, and even made sending unsolicited explicit images (‘dick pics’) a criminal offence. Debates were heated over messenger surveillance laws, with NEOS MPs breaking party lines to vote against monitoring private communications for national security purposes.
But it’s not just politics that stops in Austria during summer. Many businesses, shops, and services reduce hours or close entirely in July and August. It’s worth checking ahead if you rely on specific providers – for example, if your pharmacy is closed for two weeks, or if your pet’s food supplier takes annual leave (ours does!).
As the heat rises and life slows down, the country’s unofficial motto becomes ‘Nach dem Sommer’ – everything can wait until after the summer holidays. For residents, it’s a reminder to plan ahead, take a breath, and embrace the quieter pace of Austrian summer life.
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How to survive Austria’s summer shutdown
If you’re new to Austria, you might be surprised by how the country slows down in July and August.
Many shops, small businesses, doctors’ offices, and even tradespeople close for two to four weeks as owners and staff head off on holiday. It’s a tradition that reflects Austria’s emphasis on work-life balance, but it can catch residents unprepared.
Now is the time to check whether your regular pharmacy or doctor will be closed, especially if you need repeat prescriptions or medical consultations. Ask your GP where to go for urgent care during their break. If you rely on specific shops, such as a local bakery, market stall, or homemade dog food supplier (like I do!), confirm their summer opening times and stock up in advance if needed.
Emergency services remain available, but routine errands can become unexpectedly complicated. Landlords, Hausverwaltung offices, and some municipal services also reduce hours or pause non-urgent work.
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What else?
In typical Austrian tradition, the Inside Austria newsletter will also take a summer pause. We’ll return after the holiday period, but you can continue following all our daily news and practical coverage on The Local Austria website.